The FA Cup winner’s biggest signing over the summer was Alexis Sanchez, who moved to North London from Barcelona in a £35 million deal.

The 13 time league champions also brought in Danny Welbeck, Calum Chambers and Mathieu Debuchy, meaning they are considerably stronger than the last time the Sky Blues met them in March, when the two sides drew 1-1.

Despite Arsenal’s summer of spending, Dzeko is still confident his side can come out victorious on Saturday.

“[The Arsenal game] will be difficult but I’m an optimist,” he told the club’s official website.

“As with every season, there are several teams that will battle for the title of champions in England.

“This season Chelsea might be the most serious challenger but we mustn’t ignore Liverpool, Tottenham, Arsenal, or [Manchester] United, who will certainly be much stronger than last year. After all, everyone has got stronger and everyone wants to be first.”

The Bosnian striker signed a new deal with City in August and admits he had absolutely no hesitation in committing to a new four year contract after his side’s’ success last season.

“As far as the contract, in general I had no dilemma around an extension. I am happy at City, the manager believes in me, which is certainly important, and I give my all on the pitch and altogether it means quite a lot to me because Manchester is a club with great ambitions and I easily decided to stay put.”